Ron Rivera sees Panthers secondary regaining attitude

Ron Rivera sees Panthers secondary regaining attitude

The Panthers lost a lot more than just a great cover corner when they rescinded Josh Norman’s franchise tag and let him walk. They lost a certain confidence and swagger that their secondary has been struggling to regain ever since.

Good news: Carolina coach Ron Rivera thinks he addressed that particular issue in the draft.

“On the defensive side it’s something you certainly look at, especially at defensive back. … We think these guys can come in and bring a little attitude. … I think we’re getting back to that,” Rivera said.

Jackson already talks like a true pro cornerback, telling anyone who will listen that he’s the fastest defensive back in this class. (He proved it by tying for the fastest 40-yard dash at the NFL combine). Jackson also says he plans on becoming a Hall of Famer. As for Gaulden, his claim to fame is flipping off a bunch of Alabama fans after a touchdown on national television.

Together, Jackson and Gaulden will add speed and versatility to the defensive backfield. They’ll also bring a little bit of swag. While that quality doesn’t necessarily always translate to wins, it doesn’t hurt to have it, either.